Iran has lifted restrictions on global internet connectivity following a directive from President Masoud Pezeshkian, restoring access to international websites and broadband services that had been severely limited since nationwide protests erupted in January and were subsequently tightened during two months of war with the US and Israel, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency on Tuesday. Tasnim reported that fixed broadband services including FTTH, VDSL and ADSL as well as mobile internet are now available without restrictions, returning connectivity to conditions that existed prior to January 2026.

Protests and Conflict

Authorities first imposed a near-total internet blackout on January 8 and 9 to suppress demonstrations that had escalated in late December following a sharp depreciation of the Iranian rial against the US dollar, and later tightened restrictions after the US and Israel launched military attacks on February 28. While domestic banking systems and local platforms remained operational throughout the unrest and subsequent conflict, global access remained largely dependent on Virtual Private Networks, severely affecting businesses and online commerce.

Continued Platform Bans

Despite the restoration of general internet access, major global platforms including YouTube and X remain blocked within the country, with many users continuing to rely on VPN services to reach them. Iranian officials said 3,117 people were killed in the January protests, while human rights organizations estimated the death toll at up to 7,000, as authorities accused Washington and Tel Aviv of exploiting the unrest to justify foreign interference.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Tuesday that Beijing expects any agreement ending the US-Israeli war against Iran to be submitted to the UN Security Council for endorsement, telling the body in New York that such a step would confer legitimacy and authority on the pact. Speaking at the UN headquarters in remarks translated from Mandarin, Wang said the parties concerned must stay committed to pursuing a ceasefire and continue meeting each other halfway so peace can return to the Middle East as early as possible.

"We believe that once an agreement is reached, it will be submitted to the UN Security Council for endorsement for it to have legitimacy and authority," Wang said. He added that the Security Council must step forward to shoulder its responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security.

China assumes Security Council presidency

China is chairing the UN Security Council for the month of May, placing Wang at the center of diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict that has entered its third month. His remarks came as officials in Washington and beyond have expressed optimism regarding progress toward finalizing the pact, though specific terms remain under negotiation. Wang emphasized that council endorsement would provide the necessary legal framework for any settlement to endure beyond temporary ceasefires.

The Chinese foreign minister's statements align with Beijing's long-standing advocacy for multilateral solutions to regional conflicts. China has consistently called for restraint from all parties and warned against actions that could further destabilize the Middle East.

War enters third month amid ceasefire

Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran in late February, prompting Tehran to retaliate against Israel and US allies in the Gulf while closing the Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for global energy shipments. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation and was later extended indefinitely by US President Donald Trump, who has sought to broker a permanent settlement.

Trump said Saturday that an agreement with Iran to end the war had been "largely negotiated" and was awaiting finalization. The conflict has killed thousands and disrupted global energy markets, with the blockade of the strategic waterway affecting supply chains worldwide.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation and establishing regional peace, according to a statement from the Turkish Communications Directorate. The leaders exchanged views on global developments and assessed the current state of Türkiye-Pakistan relations during the call.

Bilateral cooperation

Erdoğan told Sharif that Ankara and Islamabad would continue taking steps to advance ties in all areas, vowing to deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations. The Turkish leader emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue in achieving shared economic and security objectives.

Regional peace efforts

The president noted that Türkiye and Pakistan are working with brotherly countries to end conflicts in the region and establish lasting stability, according to the statement. He highlighted the value of ongoing mediation efforts and expressed hope that negotiations would yield positive results for the wider Muslim world.

Holiday greetings

Erdoğan also extended congratulations to Sharif and the people of Pakistan on the upcoming Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, which marks the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The greeting underscored the close cultural and religious bonds between the two Muslim-majority nations.

Weaponization of hunger

Speaking at the Food Security and Nutrition Under Pressure event during Rome Nutrition Week, Sanchez said more than 20,000 attacks against markets, farmland and distribution networks have been documented over the past eight years. He specifically referenced Gaza, where "some seek to win a war by starving an entire people into submission," adding that such tactics represent "a blatant violation of international humanitarian law."

The Spanish leader also criticized Israel's detention of humanitarian flotilla members last week, stating they "humiliated, abandoned and mistreated" activists attempting to deliver aid. "Hunger today is exactly that: a weapon," Sanchez said, describing it as "a very cheap weapon" that disproportionately impacts civilian populations.

Global trade disruptions

Sanchez warned that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — through which nearly half of maritime fertilizer trade passes — has driven nitrogen-based fertilizer prices up by 50 percent. Europeans are already feeling the impact "in our pockets" through rising food costs, he noted, while other regions face "even more dramatic" consequences as famine risks mount.

"Those who set the world on fire are never the ones who end up going hungry," Sanchez said, cautioning that decisions made today will determine whether the world faces a new food crisis within six to 12 months. Spain increased development aid by 13 percent in 2025 despite broader global declines, he added, pledging continued support for multilateral efforts to combat hunger.

FAO warns of deeper crisis

Food and Agriculture Organization Director-General Qu Dongyu echoed these concerns, stating that disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict are placing growing pressure on global agrifood systems. "The decisions we make now will determine whether this remains a manageable shock, or evolves into a deeper global food security crisis in 2026 and 2027," Qu said, urging early action before humanitarian costs rise.

He noted that rising energy and fertilizer prices are increasing production costs worldwide, while vulnerable countries already struggling with debt, climate shocks and conflict face worsening pressure. "Food crises do not begin when shelves are empty," Qu said. "They begin when farmers cannot plant, when fertilizers become unaffordable, when transport systems break down and when vulnerable households lose their purchasing power."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the Security Cabinet on Tuesday that the military is expanding its offensive in Lebanon with large ground forces now controlling strategic areas, according to a statement from his office. "We are deepening our operations in Lebanon, and the Israeli army is operating with large ground forces and controlling strategic areas," he said, adding that the army was fortifying what he called a "security belt" to protect northern Israeli towns.

Ceasefire under strain

The remarks come as the Israeli army continues to violate a US-announced ceasefire that took effect on April 17 and was subsequently extended until early July. Netanyahu did not specify the locations of the expanded operations or explain how the "security belt" fortifications align with the truce agreement brokered by Washington.

Humanitarian toll

According to Lebanese officials, Israeli attacks have killed nearly 3,200 people, injured more than 9,600 and displaced over 1.6 million since early March. The continued escalation threatens to further destabilize the region ahead of the ceasefire's expiration in early July.

US President Donald Trump traveled to Walter Reed Military Medical Center on Tuesday for a routine physical examination, declaring on his Truth Social platform that the checkup had gone "perfectly." The 79-year-old president thanked the facility's doctors and staff before returning to the White House following the visit, which had been announced earlier this month as part of his regular preventive care regimen.

While the White House confirmed the appointment would include routine annual dental and medical assessments, officials remained noncommittal regarding the public release of specific examination results or procedures. Trump was also scheduled to greet military service members during his time at the Maryland facility.

Visible health concerns

The examination follows months of public scrutiny over visible bruising on Trump's hands, which the White House has attributed to an ongoing daily aspirin regimen combined with frequent handshaking associated with presidential duties. He has also been repeatedly observed with swollen ankles, a condition his physicians have diagnosed as chronic venous insufficiency.

Medical transparency has proven inconsistent during his second term. Trump disclosed in October that he received an MRI during a second hospital visit last year, though he later contradicted this account by saying the test was actually a CT scan and expressing regret over the disclosure. He has not revealed which part of his body was examined or why doctors ordered the procedure.

Presidential age milestone

Trump will turn 80 in June, making him the first US president to reach that milestone while in office. He was already the oldest individual to be inaugurated to the presidency when he was sworn into office in January 2025.

The president last visited a dentist on May 2 during a regular weekend trip to Florida. The White House has not indicated whether detailed results from Tuesday's physical will be released to the public.

Switzerland announced 3 million Swiss francs — over $3.8 million — in emergency funding on Tuesday to help contain the Ebola outbreak devastating eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation stated the outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, which has no available vaccine or treatment, and has already resulted in more than 900 suspected cases including 100 confirmed infections. Congolese authorities have recorded 220 suspected deaths including 10 confirmed fatalities, with the virus mainly affecting the eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu — regions already destabilized by armed conflict and mass displacement.

Aid allocation

More than 2 million Swiss francs of the funding will go to the World Health Organization to support the deployment of emergency medical teams and provide laboratory and technical assistance. An additional 500,000 francs will support maternal and child health programs in North and South Kivu through epidemiological monitoring and case management, while 400,000 francs will be directed to a Medair project focused on infectious disease prevention in Ituri and North Kivu. The SDC also plans to deploy two specialists from the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Corps to assist UN agencies responding to the crisis, with the cooperation office in Bukavu coordinating the response on the ground.

Global emergency declaration

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Monday that "the outbreak is progressing faster than we are," although the agency is urgently scaling up operations. The WHO declared the Ebola outbreak affecting Congo and Uganda a global health emergency on May 17 after suspected infections continued to rise and confirmed cases emerged beyond the initial outbreak zone. Ten countries including Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi face the risk of an Ebola outbreak, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, while the WHO has warned that the situation is being closely monitored due to infections among healthcare workers and outbreaks in urban areas.

Sanctions call

Lecornu said it is "essential to go further with sanctions in the framework of the European Union," insisting that France must utilize "the tools of the rule of law and in full respect of international law." He noted that the failure of certain states to respect international norms does not excuse French inaction, according to parliamentary transcripts.

Flotilla interception

The Israeli army intercepted the Global Sumud flotilla last Monday in international waters as the convoy attempted to breach the blockade of Gaza, which has remained in place since 2007. Live broadcasts showed naval forces boarding multiple vessels that had departed from the Turkish Mediterranean district of Marmaris four days earlier carrying 426 participants — including 96 Turkish activists and citizens from 39 other nations such as Germany, the US, and the UK.

Pattern of interceptions

The sanctions demand follows the circulation of footage showing Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir — a key coalition partner to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — waving an Israeli flag and taunting detained activists who were shown kneeling in tightly packed formations with their hands tied behind their backs. The April 29 incident off Crete saw forces detain 177 activists approximately 600 nautical miles from Gaza, according to organizers who reported mistreatment during the operation well outside Greek territorial waters.

Displacement without end

Inside a school in Marj al-Zouhour that has been converted into an emergency shelter, 34-year-old Nasreen Abdul Aal lives with her family in the crowded classrooms after being displaced three times from Ain Arab village in the Marjayoun district. She told Anadolu that her family briefly returned home during an earlier truce but remained only days before residents were again told to leave, adding that "families no longer gather, and children can no longer recognize the atmosphere of Eid." Repeated displacement has left deep psychological scars on families and children, she noted, while farmers have lost harvest seasons and livelihoods and many families increasingly fear losing their homes entirely amid continued attacks.

Holding on despite war

In Kfarhamam, 60-year-old Um Najib Fares has refused to leave her home despite intensified nighttime airstrikes and shelling, stating that explosions have become part of daily life and "we remain in our homes despite everything," even as holidays that once brought together children and grandchildren have become occasions marked by absence. Kfarhamam Mayor Mouad Rahhal told Anadolu that Eid al-Adha traditionally served as a vital social occasion reconnecting scattered families and relatives, but today many displaced families hesitate to return even during religious holidays for fear of worsening security conditions and renewed violence. Around 110 families remain in the town despite the difficult conditions, Rahhal added, describing an unprecedented social emptiness across border villages that has replaced the usual holiday crowds.

Expanded offensive continues

In Shebaa, 83-year-old Rasmiya Zoghbi still insists on preparing traditional Eid cookies and preserving fragments of cultural tradition despite an atmosphere overshadowed by anxiety, saying holidays should remain a time for goodness and prayers that families may one day return home, while others who stayed behind continue trying to maintain simple rituals in the embattled region. Israel has conducted an expanded offensive on Lebanon since March 2, killing nearly 3,200 people, injuring over 9,600 and displacing more than 1.6 million people, according to official figures. The Israeli army has continued its daily attacks despite a US-mediated ceasefire that took effect on April 17 and was later extended to early July.

Russia's ambassador to the United Nations on Tuesday accused the United States of violating its international obligations as host country by denying a visa to a senior Russian diplomat scheduled to attend a high-level Security Council meeting, condemning the move as an act of "egregious disrespect." Addressing a council debate in New York on upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, Vassily Nebenzia stated that Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Alimov had originally been selected to lead the Russian delegation for the session.

"However, despite all of our attempts to persuade the US side to issue a visa to him, that visa was ultimately not granted," Nebenzia said. He argued that the refusal constitutes a clear breach of the UN Headquarters Agreement — which mandates that Washington provide access to the headquarters for officials from all member states without exception. The ambassador characterized the denial not merely as a procedural failure but as a deliberate snub to the Chinese presidency of the Security Council and the thematic significance of the debate on international system strengthening.

Western 'rules-based order' challenged

Nebenzia further claimed that countries "spearheaded by the West are proposing some kind of a (new) rules-based order," rather than adhering strictly to the UN Charter framework. The visa dispute underscores ongoing diplomatic friction between Moscow and Washington regarding access to international forums and competing visions of multilateral legitimacy. The Security Council session convened Tuesday to address mechanisms for strengthening the UN-centered international system amid rising great-power tensions.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said Tuesday that a man was killed by Israeli army fire in the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, noting that his identity has not yet been determined and that ambulance crews transferred the body to Jenin Governmental Hospital. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said Israeli forces handed over the body of the victim, adding that the circumstances surrounding the killing were not immediately clear.

Military operation

The Israeli army launched a military operation on Jan. 21 in refugee camps across the northern occupied West Bank, beginning in the Jenin camp before expanding to the Tulkarem and Nur Shams camps. The three camps have since largely turned into near-empty areas after widespread destruction and displacement, with hundreds of homes demolished and roads carved through residential neighborhoods. Residents occasionally return to inspect their homes or retrieve belongings.

West Bank violence

The escalation in the West Bank has continued alongside Israel’s war on the Gaza Strip since Oct. 8, 2023, with frequent raids, arrests, killings and property destruction reported across Palestinian areas. Israeli army operations and settler attacks in the West Bank have killed 1,162 Palestinians, injured nearly 12,245, and led to 23,000 arrests since a ceasefire was signed last October. Military incursions have persisted across the territory alongside the Gaza offensive.

Strategic cooperation

The visit, which includes participation in Eurasian Economic Union events, comes despite diplomatic protocol limiting state visits to one per presidential term — a restriction Moscow and Astana agreed to waive to highlight their partnership, Ushakov stated. Trade turnover between the neighbors reached a record $29 billion in 2025, with Russia accounting for approximately 19% of Kazakhstan's foreign commerce, he added.

Energy and infrastructure

Energy cooperation will dominate the agenda during the Putin-Tokayev discussions, with particular focus on expanding Russian oil transit routes through Kazakhstan and advancing infrastructure development. The leaders are expected to finalize an agreement for constructing Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant using Russian designs and financing, alongside 15 other bilateral documents including a joint declaration outlining seven principles of friendship, according to the Kremlin official.

Eurasian Economic Forum

More than 30 Russian officials and executives will join a 400-strong delegation attending the visit and related EAEU activities, Ushakov noted. On Thursday, Putin is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the 5th Eurasian Economic Forum focusing on digital transformation and artificial intelligence, while Friday's Supreme Eurasian Economic Council meeting will address economic security risks, including Armenia's potential pivot toward the European Union. During the visit, the leaders will also witness the symbolic launch of a Sirius educational center construction project in Astana and the release of four Amur tigers into the Ile-Balkhash nature reserve.

Archaeological pretext for confiscation

The Jerusalem Governorate warned that the historic Nabi Samuel Mosque is facing one of the most dangerous phases of "Judaization" after Israeli authorities moved to seize land surrounding the village and mosque under the pretext of developing an archaeological site. The governorate stated that the confiscation order affects 110 dunams from both Nabi Samuel and Beit Iksa, including areas immediately adjacent to the historic mosque.

'Colonial war' against Palestinians

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said the seizure represents "an extension of a colonial war against the land, the people and the Palestinian narrative," reflecting systematic policies targeting Palestinian geography and demography. It added that Israel uses "public interest" and archaeological projects as a cover to legitimize land confiscation and reshape the area in support of settlement expansion. The ministry urged the international community and the United Nations to take practical and binding measures — including sanctions — to halt annexation policies and hold Israel accountable.

Decades of isolation

Israel demolished most homes in Nabi Samuel in 1971 and displaced residents under the pretext of protecting rare antiquities, according to the Jerusalem Governorate. Around 300 Palestinians currently remain in the village under harsh and isolated conditions after Israel declared the surrounding area a national park in 1995, confiscating thousands of dunams and effectively besieging the community.

Conflict overshadows Eid al-Adha

Erdogan said the ongoing conflict has cast a shadow over this week's Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, expressing confidence that the Iranian people will overcome the current difficult period and find safety. He also extended holiday greetings to Pezeshkian during the conversation, the presidency stated.

Bilateral ties and regional initiatives

The two leaders discussed bilateral relations alongside regional and global developments, with Erdogan emphasizing that Türkiye is working with brotherly nations to ensure stability. “Türkiye is working together with brotherly countries to ensure peace and stability in the region and will continue providing all kinds of support for negotiations to yield positive results,” he said.

The call took place as Muslim communities worldwide observe Eid al-Adha amid ongoing regional hostilities.

Vigilante groups exploit economic grievances

In April and May, protests organized by March and March in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban were linked to violent incidents that forced hundreds of legally registered foreign nationals to flee their homes and seek refuge at police stations, according to the rights group. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently expressed deep concern over reports of xenophobic harassment and attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa, the organization said. Nomathamsanga Masiko-Mpaka, a researcher at Human Rights Watch South Africa desk, said the constitution protects the right to protest but does not permit vigilante groups to block migrants from accessing healthcare and education services.

Anti-immigrant rhetoric intensifies ahead of polls

Operation Dudula, founded in Soweto following the July 2021 riots, draws its name from the isiZulu word meaning "force out" and has gained momentum ahead of South Africa's local government elections scheduled for November, political analyst Andre Duvenhage of North-West University told Anadolu. The movement has framed undocumented migration as a national crisis, describing South Africa as "being invaded" while accusing migrants of contributing to crime and unemployment in a country where the official jobless rate stands at 32 percent. Political parties including ActionSA and the Patriotic Alliance have drawn support from the anti-immigrant mobilization, with former Operation Dudula head Zandile Dabula recently joining ActionSA's campaign.

Government response and historical context

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said this month that criminal acts targeting foreign nationals do not reflect government policy, stating there is "no place in South Africa for xenophobia, ethnic mobilization, intolerance or violence." Dale McKinley, spokesperson for Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia, said migrants were being scapegoated for structural failures that long predate recent migration waves, noting that such rhetoric risks deepening tensions in a country with a history of anti-migrant violence. South Africa experienced its deadliest xenophobic attacks in 2008, when violence that began in Alexandra Township spread across the country and killed 62 people, followed by further outbreaks in 2015 and 2019 that left at least 19 dead and hundreds of businesses looted.

Israeli forces struck a road adjacent to Lebanon's largest dam on Tuesday, causing rocks and debris to scatter into the surrounding lake though causing no structural damage to the facility itself, according to Lebanese authorities.

The National Litani River Authority stated that the explosion damaged the road and nearby areas but left the Qaraoun Dam's structure and facilities intact. Technical teams were dispatched to inspect the site and assess any potential safety risks, the agency said.

Pattern of strikes

The attack marked the first targeting of the area since cross-border hostilities intensified in early March, following the onset of US and Israeli military operations against Iran in late February. Earlier on Tuesday, Israeli forces also targeted a main road near the dam, disrupting traffic in the western Bekaa region.

Strategic facility

The Qaraoun Dam serves as a critical resource for Lebanon, providing water for irrigation, electricity generation and storage. Located in the western Bekaa region, it stands as the country's largest dam and a vital component of its national water infrastructure.

Seven Threats to Global Order

Guterres described the charter as "a survival guide for humanity" created to ensure "that the force of law must prevail over the law of force." He identified seven major threats now endangering the international system, warning that "we now face the highest number of conflicts since the founding of the United Nations."

"There is growing external interference" in these conflicts, he said, pointing to escalating violence across the Middle East, Sudan and Ukraine. He noted that weapons provisions — including drones — now frequently target civilians and civilian objects, expanding the scope of external involvement in regional wars.

Regional Flashpoints

The secretary-general expressed particular concern regarding Russia's announcement of attacks on Ukrainian defense facilities following reports of a Ukrainian drone strike in Starobelsk. "Now more than ever, it is imperative to avoid any escalation," he said, warning that further conflict risks making "the search for peace even more distant" in a war that has already devastated civilian populations.

He also highlighted instability across the Middle East, noting that Israel has announced expanded operations in Lebanon while ceasefire violations persist in Gaza. Uncertainty surrounds negotiations between Washington and Tehran, he added, compounding risks of wider regional confrontation.

Erosion of International Norms

Guterres warned of "a dangerous erosion of respect for international law," stating that core principles — sovereign equality, territorial integrity and the prohibition of force — "are being challenged or ignored." He observed that "violations go unanswered" while impunity spreads across multiple theaters of conflict.

The UN chief also pointed to an "accelerating and destabilizing arms race" as military spending reaches record levels while humanitarian and development funding declines. He cautioned that new technologies including artificial intelligence and autonomous weapons are advancing faster than international capacity to govern them.

Climate and Governance Challenges

Climate change is acting as "a driver of instability, a multiplier of threats, and an increasing source of tension within and between nations," Guterres said. He added that human rights are under "full-scale attack" and developing nations face mounting debt burdens alongside limited access to financing.

Urging reforms to global institutions, Guterres stressed they "must reflect today's realities, not those of 1945." He acknowledged that "no reform, institutional or structural, can substitute for political will," calling on all member states to refrain from threatening or using force against any state's territorial integrity or political independence.

US President Donald Trump has appointed former Attorney General Pam Bondi to the Presidential Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, tasking her with helping coordinate artificial intelligence policy between federal officials and technology industry leaders, according to Axios. The news site reported on Tuesday that Bondi will serve on PCAST after departing her role as the nation's top law enforcement officer last month, though specific details regarding her tenure on the council remain undisclosed.

Health and Recovery

The appointment comes as Bondi recovers from a thyroid cancer diagnosis she received shortly after leaving the Justice Department, Axios reported. A source familiar with the matter told the outlet that she has undergone treatment for the condition and is currently recuperating, though the timeline for her return to full capacity remains unclear.

Transition from Justice Department

Last month, Trump announced Bondi's removal from the Attorney General post, stating at the time that she would transition to a private sector role he described as a much needed and important new job. The president did not specify the White House advisory position she would assume, according to Axios, which noted the PCAST appointment marks her return to government service shortly after her departure from the Cabinet.

Solidarity with Gaza

In his holiday message, Erdogan described Eid al-Adha as a "spiritual blessing" and extended greetings to Muslims worldwide, particularly those welcoming the occasion "with sadness, pain and deep sorrow" in Gaza and across the Islamic world. "To all our brothers and sisters welcoming this holiday with sadness in different corners of our spiritual geography, particularly those in Gaza, I extend my strongest messages of solidarity," he said, according to Anadolu Agency.

Netanyahu criticized

Speaking to reporters following prayers at the Çamlıca Mosque, Erdogan described Netanyahu as a "tyrant" and expressed hope that Muslims globally would unite in opposition to Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip. "I also believe that the tyrant known as Netanyahu will learn the necessary lesson at the hands of the world's Muslims," Erdogan said, as Türkiye maintains its position as one of the most outspoken critics of Israel's military campaign.

Holiday observance

Millions across Türkiye performed Eid prayers on Wednesday morning, marking the Feast of the Sacrifice which commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son before divine intervention provided a ram. Muslims traditionally sacrifice animals during the four-day holiday and distribute the meat to the poor, with Erdogan noting that such occasions strengthen social bonds and mutual support. Erdogan has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and expanded humanitarian aid access, with Ankara maintaining diplomatic pressure on Israel as the holiday continues.

Additional attacks

At dawn, a Palestinian woman was injured by Israeli gunfire in Khan Younis in southern Gaza after tents sheltering displaced people in the Al-Maslakh Al-Turki area came under fire, a medical source at Nasser Hospital said. Eyewitnesses also told Anadolu that Israeli naval vessels opened fire toward the coasts of Rafah and Khan Younis, with no immediate reports of casualties.

Ceasefire violations

As of Monday, Israel's ongoing violations of the Oct. 10, 2025 ceasefire have killed 904 Palestinians and wounded 2,713 others, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The agreement was reached after Israel's two years of war on the Strip that killed over 72,000, injured 172,000 others, and caused widespread destruction affecting 90% of civilian infrastructure.

Regional context

The attacks come as diplomatic efforts continue between the US and Iran to end their conflict, with Secretary of State Rubio saying an agreement could take "a couple days" to finalize. A separate ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has also been repeatedly violated.

Search areas

Search teams will investigate areas including Hongcheon County and Yangpyeong County, where fierce fighting involving US 2nd Infantry Division troops took place during a Chinese offensive in 1951. Other search sites were selected after local residents reported possible burial locations of fallen American soldiers.

Future plans

Officials said the operation is intended to identify potential recovery zones ahead of larger excavation efforts planned by the allies later this year. South Korea and the United States are also preparing a joint underwater recovery mission scheduled for August.

Korean War context

The Korean War lasted from 1950 to 1953, leaving more than 7,800 American soldiers unaccounted for. The joint recovery efforts are part of ongoing commitments to return fallen soldiers to their families.

Governor denied access

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill said her request to enter the facility earlier Monday had been formally denied. “My request for access to Delaney Hall was formally denied this morning, raising serious questions about what they are trying to hide from public view,” Sherrill said in a statement. The protests came amid a reported hunger and labor strike by detainees over alleged poor living conditions, lack of medical care, and restrictions on family visits. In a letter released last week, nearly 300 detainees described conditions as “inhumane,” citing poor food quality and medical neglect.

Ozone pollution and UK record

The heatwave is expected to bring elevated ozone pollution levels in the Paris region and Rhone Valley, which could cause respiratory or cardiovascular discomfort. The UK recorded its highest May temperature on Monday, as well as its highest daily minimum temperature for the month overnight, according to the Met Office. Spain’s AEMET issued yellow alerts for several regions as temperatures hover around 34-38°C, while Portugal’s IPMA projected temperatures nearing 40°C.

Seoul increases military surveillance

Following the launch, South Korea said it had intensified surveillance operations and strengthened coordination with both the United States and Japan. Military authorities in Seoul stated that defense systems remain on high alert amid concerns that additional missile activity could follow in the coming days.

The latest missile test adds to a series of weapons launches carried out by Pyongyang in recent months. In April, North Korea conducted multiple short-range missile exercises, while leader Kim Jong-un personally supervised cruise missile drills earlier in the month.

Diplomatic uncertainty grows

The missile launch also came amid reports that Chinese President Xi Jinping could visit North Korea in the near future, a development closely watched by regional governments and international observers. Beijing remains one of Pyongyang’s key political and economic partners despite growing international pressure over North Korea’s weapons programs.

South Korea renews call for dialogue

Shortly after the launches, South Korea’s Foreign Ministry urged Pyongyang to return to diplomatic engagement aimed at reducing military tensions in the region. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Park Il said Seoul remained committed to policies focused on peace and stability across the Korean Peninsula.

The Korean Peninsula has remained one of the world’s most heavily militarized regions for decades, with missile tests and military exercises frequently fueling tensions between North Korea, South Korea and their allies, including the United States.

Chemical incident timeline

The emergency began Thursday after a tank containing about 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate overheated and began releasing gas. Conditions improved Sunday after a crack formed in the tank, helping reduce pressure and lower temperatures. “The trajectory is headed in the right direction for the first time since Thursday,” California State Senator Thomas Umberg said. Orange County Fire Authority Interim Chief TJ McGovern told reporters: “It’s not over yet. We still have work to do.” Officials said they cannot yet determine when the remaining evacuees will be allowed to return home.

Criminal investigation

California Governor Gavin Newsom said a federal emergency declaration approved by President Trump’s administration would support displaced residents and affected businesses. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer announced that authorities had launched a criminal investigation into the facility operator and possible hotel price gouging during the evacuations.

Participation and context

Unofficial representatives from 12 countries that Russia considers “unfriendly” are also expected to take part. The forum comes amid heightened global tensions following the US-Israeli war on Iran, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Russia has positioned itself as a counterbalance to Western-led security architectures, and the forum provides a platform for alternative security dialogue. Topics likely include cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and energy security.

Legal and political context

According to a letter sent by the Dutch government to parliament, The Hague is exploring processing asylum applications outside EU territory in cooperation with other member states. The plan is being discussed with several European partners, including Greece, Germany, Austria, and Denmark—all of which have supported stricter migration measures. A legal review commissioned by the Dutch government concluded that there are no legal obstacles to the plan. The first return hub is expected to be established outside the bloc, though the location has not yet been announced, with negotiations ongoing with potential host countries.

Call for cooperation

He called on Muslim nations and other countries of the region "to pursue shared interests" for shaping a new regional and global order. "I sincerely invite all Islamic countries and governments to friendship and cooperation for the common good," he added.

Ceasefire context

The call comes amid Pakistan-led mediation efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran that started on Feb. 28, inviting retaliatory attacks from Tehran. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 and was later extended by President Trump indefinitely. Talks between the two sides continue, with Secretary of State Rubio saying an agreement could take "a couple days" to finalize.

Regional realignment

Khamenei's statement reflects Iran's broader strategic objective of reducing US military influence in the Middle East. The region has seen heightened tensions since the war began, with Gulf states facing Iranian retaliatory strikes and the Strait of Hormuz largely closed to commercial shipping.

Quad convenes in New Delhi

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar hosted US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi for the talks, which Jaishankar described as “substantive and productive.” Speaking at a joint news conference, he said the Indo-Pacific would become “more important” to the world in coming years and that the responsibilities of the four-nation partnership would grow commensurately.

“Economic resilience should be promoted, that supply chain should be strengthened, trusted and secure technologies diffused and production capacities enhanced,” Jaishankar said. He added that the ministers spent considerable time discussing safe and unimpeded maritime commerce and reaffirmed the significance of scrupulously observing international law.

Opposition to tolling

Wong told reporters that the Quad recognizes its obligation to provide “real choices” as strategic circumstances in the region deteriorate amid “acute economic stress.” “We recognize the importance of maintaining the principle of freedom of navigation and our opposition to any tolling proposition,” she said, noting that economic volatility is increasing due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The Australian foreign minister added that the ministers recognize efforts by Rubio toward a diplomatic resolution to ensure freedom of navigation is restored and crucial energy supply flows resume.

Diplomatic efforts

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the group discussed the impact of tensions involving Iran on Indo-Pacific energy security and confirmed the importance of diplomatic efforts to ensure free and safe navigation through the strategic waterway. The ministers also voiced support for initiatives aimed at strengthening critical mineral supply chains and energy cooperation to boost regional resilience across the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East, Motegi noted.

The Quad partnership among the US, Australia, India and Japan was formed in 2007 and has increasingly focused on maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pledged to make "positive contributions" for peace and stability in the Middle East during the Pakistani leader's four-day visit to Beijing, as both powers seek to secure a lasting diplomatic resolution to the ongoing war between the United States and Iran.

Beijing praised Islamabad's efforts to promote multilateralism, peaceful dispute resolution and regional cooperation during its July 2025 presidency of the UN Security Council, according to a joint statement issued Tuesday. The Pakistani side expressed support for President Xi's four propositions on safeguarding and promoting peace in the Middle East, while China appreciated Pakistan's facilitation of the temporary ceasefire between Washington and Tehran that took effect on April 8, as well as its hosting of subsequent peace talks in the Pakistani capital.

Both sides also reiterated their commitment to early implementation of a five-point initiative for restoring peace and stability in the Gulf region, expressing readiness to jointly contribute to ending the conflict that has disrupted maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan additionally said it firmly supports all efforts by China to achieve national reunification and resolutely opposes any form of "Taiwan independence," the statement said.

Afghanistan Coordination and Regional Security

The war between the US and Iran began on February 28 when Washington and Tel Aviv launched coordinated attacks against Iranian nuclear and military facilities, prompting Tehran to retaliate with drone and missile barrages against regional targets and to shutter the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping — a move that has disrupted global energy markets. A ceasefire mediated by Pakistan took effect on April 8, but subsequent negotiations in Islamabad have failed to produce a permanent settlement; former US President Donald Trump extended the temporary truce indefinitely last week while maintaining a strict blockade on vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports, claiming the final agreement has been "largely negotiated" and awaits only formalization.

Beyond the Gulf crisis, Beijing and Islamabad agreed to maintain close coordination on developments in Afghanistan and strengthen cooperation on regional security issues, welcoming the successful holding of informal talks among China, Afghanistan and Pakistan in Urumqi last month. Both sides stressed that no individual, group or organization should be allowed to use any territory to undermine security or threaten the interests of regional countries, and agreed to remain in close contact on Afghanistan-related matters while continuing to facilitate dialogue between Islamabad and Kabul, according to the statement.

Jaishankar stated that the agreement aims to strengthen resilient and diversified supply chains for strategic materials essential to both economies. "It will strengthen resilient and diversified supply chains," he said, describing the accord as one "more sign" of close cooperation in a world facing numerous challenges and opportunities.

Strategic supply chain concerns

Rubio emphasized that both nations cannot afford to leave foundational materials vulnerable to single-source monopolies that could deny access during conflicts or serve as leverage against sovereign interests. "We are two countries that have strategic interests in ensuring reliable long-term access to critical minerals and supply chains that are important for our innovation economy," he said, underscoring the geopolitical imperative of reducing dependence on dominant suppliers.

Diplomatic visit

The signing occurred during Rubio's four-day maiden visit to India, which began last week and included participation in the Quad ministerial gathering. The framework represents a concrete outcome of Washington's renewed focus on Indo-Pacific partnerships amid growing competition for control over critical mineral resources essential for defense and technology sectors.

Beijing calls for immediate de-escalation

Speaking at a regular press briefing in Beijing, Mao said China urges relevant parties to honor their ceasefire commitments and resolve disputes through dialogue rather than military escalation. "China urges relevant parties to honor their ceasefire commitments, adhere to resolving disputes through peaceful means, continue dialogue and negotiations," she told reporters, according to state-run Global Times. She added that Beijing seeks a solution accommodating all sides' concerns to restore peace in the Gulf and broader Middle East.

US strikes target Iranian military assets

The US military said Monday it carried out "self-defense" strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launchers and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines — operations Washington described as defensive measures. Mao noted that Beijing has maintained close communication with relevant parties, including Tehran, since the outbreak of fighting. She called on Washington and Iran to resolve their differences through peaceful means and return to stability in the Middle East.

China's diplomatic efforts

Mao said China will continue following the spirit of President Xi Jinping's full proposition to play a positive role in restoring peace and tranquility in the Middle East. She reiterated Beijing's long-standing position favoring a political settlement to the nuclear dispute, stressing the importance of safeguarding the global non-proliferation regime. China has maintained close communication with Iran since fighting began and will continue working toward an early restoration of regional stability, she added.

Reported strikes

Earlier Tuesday, Iran's semi-official Fars News Agency reported that US and Israeli aircraft struck Iranian vessels south of Larak Island near the Strait of Hormuz, killing what it described as "several Iranian nationals." The claims could not be independently verified, and there was no immediate confirmation from US or Israeli officials.

Ceasefire context

The developments come amid Pakistan-led mediation efforts aimed at ending the conflict that began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb. 28. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 and was later extended indefinitely by President Trump. Talks between the two sides continue, with Secretary of State Rubio saying an agreement could take "a couple days" to finalize.

Strait of Hormuz

"We reiterate the importance of adhering to international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea with respect to navigational rights and freedoms, and the safety and uninterrupted flow of global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea," the statement said. The Quad "condemns" attacks on commercial shipping vessels and opposes any future measures inconsistent with the Law of the Sea, including the imposition of tolls.

South China Sea

On the disputed South China Sea and the East China Sea, the Quad expressed "serious concerns" regarding dangerous and coercive actions, including interference with offshore resource development, obstruction of freedom of navigation, and dangerous maneuvers by military aircraft and coast guard vessels.

Quad partnership

The Quad, a partnership among the US, Australia, India, and Japan, was formed in 2007. The New Delhi meeting came amid the war between the US and Iran and ongoing diplomatic efforts to reach a lasting agreement.

Security Cabinet meeting

The move followed a Sunday meeting of the Israeli Security Cabinet, during which army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir reportedly called for renewed strikes on the Lebanese capital Beirut, in response to Hezbollah drone attacks. Israel briefly halted its strikes on Beirut in April at the request of the US as Washington and Tehran continued Pakistan-mediated diplomatic talks to end the Iran war.

Ceasefire violations

Despite the US-mediated ceasefire that formally came into effect on April 17 and was later extended, Israel has continued to violate the truce. Nearly 3,200 people have been killed, over 9,600 injured, and more than 1.6 million displaced by Israeli bombardment in Lebanon since March 2 amid cross-border attacks with Hezbollah, according to Lebanese officials.

'Good deal or none'

"If there's going to be a deal, we're going to have to work through that, but this is, you know, it's either going to be a good deal, or there isn't going to be one," he added.

Rejection of tolls

Rubio continued to criticize Iran's efforts to shutter the Strait of Hormuz to commercial traffic, saying it is "unlawful, it's illegal, it's unsustainable." "There's no country in the world that's in favor of the tolling system, except the regime in Iran. So that's not acceptable. That cannot happen. The straits need to be open, unimpeded, without tolls, and obviously that needs to happen."

Ceasefire context

Regional tensions boiled over Feb. 28 when the US and Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate and shutter the strait. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, with Trump later extending the truce indefinitely. Last week, he said the deal has been "largely negotiated" and awaits finalization.

Reported strikes

Earlier in the day, the news agency reported that US and Israeli aircraft struck Iranian vessels south of Iran's Larak Island near the Strait of Hormuz, killing "several Iranian nationals." There was no immediate confirmation from US or Israeli officials on the reported strikes.

Ceasefire context

The reported strikes came amid Pakistan-led mediation efforts to end the war that started with US and Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, followed by Iranian retaliation. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 and was later extended by President Trump indefinitely. Talks between the two sides have continued through Pakistani mediation, with both sides recently signaling progress on a potential agreement.

Seismic context

Chile sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the Nazca and South American tectonic plates collide, generating frequent seismic activity. Since 1570, Chile has endured roughly 100 major earthquakes, nearly 30 of which exceeded magnitude 8.0. On average, a quake of magnitude 8.0 or higher strikes once every decade. The 1960 Valdivia earthquake, magnitude 9.5, is the largest ever recorded. It triggered a devastating tsunami with 10-meter waves, destroying southern Chile’s coastal infrastructure and reaching as far as Japan. Official estimates place the death toll at over 2,000.

Recent deadly quakes

Chile’s last major seismic disaster, “27F,” occurred on Feb. 27, 2010, registering magnitude 8.8—the second-strongest in the nation’s history. Over 500 people died. The most lethal quake in Chilean history struck on Jan. 24, 1939, a magnitude 8.3 that devastated Chillan, killing an estimated 24,000 to 30,000 people.

Economic vision

In public remarks, Lo has advocated for fiscal discipline and economic transformation, arguing that the government could “turn around the economic situation within 24 months” if all stakeholders adopt “a posture of rigor and financial discipline.” He is also recognized for his critical views on the CFA franc, a recurring issue raised by the ruling PASTEF party in its calls for greater economic and monetary sovereignty. Lo’s appointment comes after former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko was dismissed for speaking out against debt restructuring. Senegal’s public debt has reached 132% of GDP, according to the IMF.

Context of frozen assets

The denial comes as several high-profile Iranian officials visit Qatar amid a flurry of diplomatic pushes to finalize an agreement. Iranian Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati traveled to Qatar on Monday, following a Qatari delegation visit to Tehran last week to discuss Iran’s frozen assets. Reports have estimated the total dollar amount of Iranian funds frozen in Qatar at around $12 billion. Iran has been seeking the release of these assets as part of Pakistan-mediated negotiations with the US.

Ceasefire and negotiation status

Regional tensions erupted on Feb. 28 when the US and Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran, prompting Iranian retaliation and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A Pakistan-mediated ceasefire took effect on April 8, but talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement. President Trump later extended the truce indefinitely while maintaining a naval blockade. Last week, Trump said the deal has been “largely negotiated” and awaits finalization.

From dialogue to action

The Quad—comprising the US, Australia, India, and Japan—was formed in 2007. The Indian government said the partnership is committed to “an open, free and inclusive Indo-Pacific that is prosperous and resilient.” Rubio said the US is seeking to “renew” the Quad. Earlier on Tuesday, Rubio unveiled new Quad initiatives on maritime surveillance, port infrastructure, critical minerals, and energy security. The last Quad leaders’ summit was held in the US in 2024. The New Delhi ministerial comes as diplomatic efforts continue to end the US-Israeli war on Iran, which has been locked in a fragile ceasefire since early April.

Ceasefire violations and regional tensions

The ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, has been repeatedly violated by both sides. The US has maintained a naval blockade on Iranian ports, while Iran has continued to restrict shipping through the strait. The latest strikes come as Pakistan’s army chief is in Tehran to mediate a permanent end to the conflict. Tuesday’s attack raises serious questions about the viability of the truce and the credibility of Pakistani mediation. It also undermines Qatar’s recent calls for de-escalation.

Port infrastructure and critical minerals

The second initiative involves partnering on port infrastructure, particularly in the Pacific Islands. “We’re announcing plans to work with Fiji to advance that country’s port infrastructure,” Rubio said, marking the first time Quad partners have collaborated on such a project. Rubio also announced a new “Quad Critical Minerals Framework” to coordinate investment and economic policies for mining, processing, and recycling critical minerals. Additionally, a “Quad initiative on Indo-Pacific energy security” will focus on technology, policy coordination, market analysis, and emergency response. The US Department of Energy will host a fuel security forum later this year.

Rituals and schedule

At sunset, pilgrims will proceed to Muzdalifah, where they will perform sunset and night prayers and remain overnight until dawn. Hajj rituals officially began Monday with pilgrims arriving in Mina, west of Mecca. The six-day season includes the standing at Arafat on Tuesday, overnight stays in Muzdalifah, the symbolic stoning of the devil, and the farewell circumambulation at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The rituals commemorate the trials of Prophet Abraham and his family. Saudi authorities have expanded organizational and security measures, including surveillance technologies and crowd-monitoring systems, to manage pilgrim movement and prevent unauthorized entry.

US President Donald Trump said Monday that Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium must be transferred to Washington "immediately" to be destroyed or eliminated in place or at another acceptable location with international observers present. The statement comes as negotiations to finalize an agreement ending the stalled US-Israeli war against Iran inch closer to completion, according to Pakistani military officials involved in mediation efforts.

Pakistan signals agreement near

Pakistani Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir told Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a meeting in Beijing on Monday that a US-Iran agreement "is close to being reached," according to Chinese state media reports. Munir briefed Wang on the latest developments in Islamabad's mediation role during talks held alongside Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's official visit to China, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

Islamabad intensifies diplomacy

The Pakistani army chief traveled to Beijing following a trip to Tehran last week where he held discussions with Iranian leadership on easing tensions with Washington, and expressed willingness to continue facilitating negotiations. Munir also urged China to assume a larger role in the process, according to the Foreign Ministry.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov informed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a telephone conversation that Russian forces have begun systematic strikes against military sites in Kyiv, according to Russian state news agency Tass. The strikes target military installations and corresponding decision-making centers used by Ukrainian forces in the capital, the Foreign Ministry said, citing direct instructions from President Vladimir Putin. Lavrov emphasized that the actions came in response to continued attacks by the Kyiv regime against civilian populations and infrastructure within Russia.

Evacuation warning issued

Lavrov urged the United States to ensure the immediate evacuation of its diplomatic personnel and citizens from Kyiv as security conditions deteriorate, the statement added. He referenced high-level discussions held in Anchorage in August 2025, noting that agreements reached during those talks regarding the Ukrainian conflict were being undermined by European elites and the Kyiv government. The top diplomat expressed regret that these efforts had derailed a potential settlement based on a balance of interests.

Diplomatic missions and regional issues

Beyond the Ukraine crisis, Lavrov and Rubio exchanged views on diplomatic initiatives concerning the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz and the situation surrounding Cuba, the ministry reported. The two officials reaffirmed their commitment to improving the functioning of Russian and US diplomatic missions in each other's countries despite ongoing disagreements. The US State Department has not yet issued a public statement regarding the telephone exchange.

Economic turmoil triggers unrest

Nationwide demonstrations swept Iran in late December and intensified the following month as the rial plummeted against the US dollar amid severe economic pressure. Authorities responded by imposing broad internet restrictions and temporary nationwide shutdowns aimed at curbing communications and limiting the spread of protest-related content.

Casualty disputes and foreign accusations

Iranian officials acknowledged that 3,117 people were killed during the protests, though some human rights organizations have estimated the death toll at up to 7,000. Tehran has accused Washington and Tel Aviv of seeking to exploit the unrest through sanctions and economic pressure to incite instability and justify foreign interference aimed at regime change.

Restoration directive

The directive to restore connectivity comes as the Islamic Republic seeks to stabilize domestic conditions while maintaining its narrative that external actors fueled the violence. Internet services had been severely throttled since early January, disrupting both social media platforms and economic activity across the country.

Blasts reported along strategic coast

Local residents in Bandar Abbas contacted Fars to report hearing several loud explosions late Monday evening, the agency said, adding that the exact location and source of the blasts remained unclear hours after the initial reports emerged. Similar sounds were heard simultaneously in areas around Sirik and Jask, two strategic coastal locations in southern Iran that overlook the vital Strait of Hormuz shipping channel — a chokepoint that has seen disrupted traffic since hostilities began in late February.

Context of ongoing hostilities

Iranian authorities have not issued any immediate statement regarding the explosions or provided details about potential casualties or damage from the reported blasts. The reports come amid two months of war between Tehran and Washington alongside its Israeli ally, which has seen repeated military exchanges targeting sites across the Islamic Republic and the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping.

Anti-Israel sentiment drives left-wing gains

The Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL) reversed its electoral decline dating back to 2011, increasing its vote share to 23.9 percent from 22.3 percent in the previous contest while retaining its 15 seats in the 56-member legislature. The left-wing party has drawn attention for criticizing the transformation of the Greek Cypriot Administration into Israel's 'backyard,' a stance that resonated with voters amid growing tensions over Israeli property purchases in the south.

Social media personality Fidias Panayiotou's Direct Democracy Cyprus Party also entered parliament with four seats after securing 5.4 percent of the vote. Panayiotou has built a following through strong criticism of Israeli investors acquiring property in the Greek Cypriot Administration, with his anti-Israel platform attracting particular support among younger voters.

Far-right doubles representation

The far-right National Popular Front (ELAM) emerged as another major winner, doubling its parliamentary presence from four to eight seats after capturing 10.9 percent of the vote. The party advocates for the direct union of Cyprus with Greece and maintains a hardline stance against federal settlement talks regarding the island's division, with observers noting its growing influence could reshape the 2028 presidential race.

Although the center-right Democratic Rally Party (DISY) remained the largest force with 27.1 percent of the vote, ELAM's surge has sparked debate across both the Greek Cypriot Administration and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) regarding a potential fundamental realignment within the Greek Cypriot right. The results suggest a fragmentation of the traditional right-wing bloc that has dominated politics since the 2004 Annan Plan referendum.

President's allies fail to cross threshold

President Nikos Christodoulides expressed disappointment after two center-right parties that support his administration narrowly failed to enter parliament, according to the Cyprus Times. The Democratic Alignment (DIPA) and the Movement for Social Democracy (EDEK) both fell short of the electoral threshold by only a few hundred votes, depriving the president of valuable legislative allies in the 56-seat House of Representatives.

The center-right Democratic Rally Party (DISY) secured 27.1 percent of the vote to remain the largest parliamentary force, though the overall shift toward anti-Israel and nationalist platforms has altered the balance of power. The new legislature will hold its first session later this month with AKEL holding 15 seats, ELAM holding eight, and Panayiotou's party holding four.

Syria's Emergency and Disaster Management Ministry on Monday warned residents of Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor provinces to prepare for severe flooding along the Euphrates River, urging immediate evacuation of low-lying areas near the riverbanks. The ministry said discharge from the Euphrates Dam had been increased to 1,500 cubic meters per second, a volume that could drive water levels more than two meters above normal.

Rising water levels

Officials cautioned that additional water flow may raise river levels by one meter in coming hours, creating dangerous conditions for riverside communities. Residents were told to relocate families, livestock and equipment to safe areas immediately and follow instructions from local authorities.

Strategic river basin

Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor lie along the Euphrates River basin in northern and eastern Syria, one of the country's most critical agricultural zones. The region supports extensive farming operations dependent on controlled water flows, making the sudden discharge increase threatening to both civilian safety and food production.

Beijing talks

Munir made the remarks during a meeting in Beijing held alongside Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to China, China Daily reported, citing the Foreign Ministry in Beijing. The army chief briefed Wang on the latest developments in Islamabad’s role in negotiations aimed at easing tensions between Iran and the US, according to the report.

The meeting occurred following Munir’s trip to Tehran last week, where he held talks with Iranian leadership. The visit comes as Pakistan seeks to cement its position as a key intermediary between Washington and Tehran amid ongoing regional tensions.

China's endorsement

According to the Chinese report, Munir told Wang that Pakistan was willing to continue making every effort to facilitate an agreement and expressed hope that China would play a larger role in the process. Wang described Pakistan as a trustworthy mediator and said Beijing appreciated and supported Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts.

Regional diplomacy

Chinese President Xi Jinping also met Prime Minister Sharif in Beijing on Monday, praising Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and reaffirming the countries’ unbreakable partnership. Pakistan hosted direct talks between US and Iranian officials earlier this year, though negotiations later stalled over key demands.

Global platform

Organizers announced that the second Zero Waste Forum will assemble over 120 ministers, 200 mayors, and representatives from international organizations, local governments, and the private sector. The gathering will discuss sustainable development, climate diplomacy, and economic resilience within the framework of Zero Waste Week.

Samed Agirbas, president of the foundation and COP31 high-level climate champion, said the gathering demonstrates the unprecedented global reach achieved by the Zero Waste Movement since Emine Erdogan founded the initiative. He noted that the event has emerged as a leading civil platform for environmental policymaking.

Institutional backing

The United Nations and the World Bank have signed on as principal stakeholders, with the World Bank dispatching a 30-member delegation — one of its largest representations at a single event. Harvard University, Oxford, and Yale will also provide scientific and technical expertise throughout the sessions, Agirbas told reporters.

Agirbas noted that more than 120 ministers are expected to attend, a figure exceeding the 72 ministers who participated in last year’s UN Climate Conference. The turnout reflects Istanbul’s growing centrality as a venue for high-level international dialogue on environmental governance.

Ministerial agenda

Three ministerial sessions will focus on energy and natural resources, agriculture and forestry, and industry and technology. The meetings will examine sustainable food systems, production process redesign, and technological transformation strategies alongside the future of global energy policies.

Agirbas stated that the forum will address topics expected at COP31, including the integration of zero-waste approaches into the international climate agenda. He added that ten young delegates from Kibera — one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements — will present challenges facing disadvantaged communities.

Final declaration

The forum’s final declaration is expected to secure signatures from representatives of more than 180 countries. The outcome will cement the event’s role in positioning zero-waste policies as essential pillars of economic development and international cooperation rather than purely environmental concerns.

Message of Solidarity

In a statement shared on the domestic social media network, Erdogan offered warm greetings to African leaders and citizens. "I wholeheartedly congratulate the May 25 Africa Day and the anniversary of the founding of the African Union, and send my love and respect to all our African brothers and sisters," he said, referring to the "strong historical and human ties" uniting Türkiye with the continent. The president emphasized that Ankara remains dedicated to strengthening partnerships with African nations based on mutual respect and shared values.

Continental Engagement

The African Union traces its origins to May 25, 1963, when 32 independent African states established the Organization of African Unity in Addis Ababa — now the seat of the AU Commission. The annual commemoration serves as a platform to celebrate continental solidarity and sustainable development. Ankara has pursued an intensified diplomatic outreach strategy toward Africa since 2003, elevating engagement through three Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summits and expanding Turkish Airlines routes to more than 60 destinations across the continent, according to diplomatic sources.

Economic and Security Ties

Turkish cooperation agencies including TİKA and the Turkish Maarif Foundation maintain extensive development and educational programs throughout Africa, while bilateral trade volumes have grown substantially over the past two decades. Defense cooperation has also expanded in recent years, with several African nations acquiring Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles from Turkish manufacturers to bolster their security capabilities. The next Türkiye-Africa Partnership Summit is expected to convene in 2026, building on agreements signed during the 2021 Istanbul gathering.

Diplomatic channels

The Turkish leader told the Omani sultan that Ankara continues working alongside brotherly nations in the region to establish lasting peace and stability, according to a statement from Türkiye's Communications Directorate. Erdogan emphasized that supporting diplomatic efforts remains essential to preventing further conflict, noting that military escalation serves neither regional nor global interests.

Palestinian rights

Erdogan stated that Türkiye maintains active efforts to ensure peace in the Palestinian territories and will continue defending Palestinian rights across all international platforms. The president reaffirmed Ankara's commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause through bilateral and multilateral channels.

Erdogan conveyed his Eid al-Adha greetings to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq during the exchange, which comes as Muslims worldwide observe the annual holiday marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage. The conversation reflects ongoing coordination between Ankara and Muscat regarding regional security developments.

Nuclear issue

The official said the proposed memorandum of understanding would not constitute a nuclear agreement but rather a commitment to conduct future negotiations on nuclear-related issues. The official added that a more detailed announcement could be made later Monday.

Proposal details

Under the proposal, the Strait of Hormuz would be cleared of mines and reopened during a 60-day interim period while negotiations continue. A diplomat familiar with the talks said the proposal requires Tehran to reopen the strait immediately after signing, with maritime traffic returning to pre-conflict conditions within 30 days. The proposal also calls for halting military operations across all fronts, including Lebanon.

US conditions

A senior US administration official said Iran would reaffirm that it will not pursue nuclear weapons and agree to dispose of its enriched uranium stockpiles. The official said frozen assets would not be released immediately, stressing that Tehran would "get nothing until they deliver," with sanctions relief linked to compliance with key conditions.

France forecast

The heat is forecast to intensify through Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach 39C (102.2F) in Bordeaux, 36C (96.8F) in Lyon, and 35C (95F) in Paris. Portugal is also bracing for high temperatures above 30C (86F) across the country, with six districts under a yellow weather warning for heavy showers that could include hail, thunderstorms, and strong wind gusts.

Spain and UK

Spain has issued warnings for storms and temperatures exceeding 34C (93.2F) along the northern coast, with the weather service saying the episode of "extraordinarily high temperatures for this time of year" was expected to continue throughout the week. The UK is also gripped by the heat wave, with temperatures of up to 35C (95F) forecast for Monday and Tuesday, potentially breaking the country's all-time May temperature record of 32.8C (91F) set in 1922.

Ceasefire violations

The attack occurred despite a ceasefire agreement that has been in place since October 2025. Israeli forces have continued daily violations, killing hundreds of Palestinians and maintaining a blockade that has worsened humanitarian conditions in the enclave.

Displacement camps

The al-Mawasi area houses displaced families who fled their homes during the war. Tents and makeshift shelters have been repeatedly targeted, with civilians bearing the brunt of ongoing hostilities.

Gaza war toll

Israel's war on Gaza since October 2023 has killed more than 72,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured over 172,000. About 90% of civilian infrastructure has been destroyed, with reconstruction costs estimated at $70 billion.

Dar's visit

Dar will be in New York between May 26 and 28, where besides the Security Council debate, he will also participate at a UN "Group of Friends" meeting. "Look(ing) forward to constructive engagements in New York on key regional and global developments," said Dar on X.

Ceasefire context

The meeting comes as the conflict between the US and Iran persists with a fragile ceasefire, secured by Pakistan on April 8, holding back fighting that started on Feb. 28 when Israel and the US initiated military strikes against Tehran. Islamabad has intensified its efforts to bring an agreement between Washington and Tehran to end the war permanently.

Mediation progress

Pakistan's mediation efforts have seen progress, with both sides signaling that a "large part" of issues have been resolved. However, differences remain on the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and the nuclear file.

Regional tensions

Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran in February. Tehran retaliated with strikes targeting Israel as well as US allies in the Gulf, along with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation and was later extended by President Trump indefinitely.

Russia-Gulf relations

The call reflects Russia's continued engagement with Gulf countries amid the Middle East crisis. Bahrain hosts the US Fifth Fleet, yet maintains diplomatic relations with Russia, balancing its strategic partnerships.